The State Fire Marshal’s Office has identified the cause of a fire that claimed the lives of two elderly Mississippians at a nursing home in Clinton.
Fire Marshal Mike Chaney reports that the blaze that broke out at Brookdale Senior Living on Oct. 21 likely stemmed from the inappropriate disposal of smoking materials. Officials said the fire started outside, near the maintenance office of the facility, and quickly spread because of combustible materials stored at the entrance to the maintenance office.
Those items included a mattress, box springs, and other household items, officials noted. Smoke alarms were present and working. The building had a fire suppression system in place, and emergency officials were notified early by the fire alarm company.
As a result of the fire, 82-year-old Harris Anthony and 81-year-old Sandra Laird lost their lives.
“I want to offer my sincere condolences to the families and loved ones of Mrs. Laird and Mr. Anthony. Our thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy,” Chaney said.
No charges have been filed in relation to the fire at this time.